Michael Lauen
tattoo artist
Michael Lauen is a talented tattoo artist with a huge heart. He left a rewarding career as a social worker to fulfil his artistic dreams. His blackwork, neo-traditional, and watercolour tattoos have earned him high regard. Michael cares for people, which is evident as he designs and tattoos each client. Michael’s tattoo mastery began in 2013 as an apprentice at ON2U Body Piercing and Tattoos. He followed this with three and a half years as an artist at Tantrix Body Art. His work has become well-known, particularly in the area around Saskatoon. He branched out to create his own practice in 2017. Level Up Tattoo Studios is the outcome of his artistic and professional development. Michael has an illustrative style that is quite Neo-Traditional with varying line weights. Animals, flowers, nature, animation, and comics are among his favourite subjects to tattoo. He has also become well-known for his watercolour style tattoos. Michael adores Disney. He loves putting his spin on the characters we know and love.
A closer look…then & now
Always an artist, Lauen has been creating visually and musically from an early age. He dreamed of becoming a Disney animator but chose to pursue a music career instead. His years of touring as a guitarist for the widely successful Stereotrap helped develop his love for people. Upon retiring the band, he obtained a degree in Social Work and started working in a shelter for young men. It was during this time that he began his tattoo apprenticeship. Now the full-time artist once again, Lauen channels his abilities through tattooing. Michael is a family man and a giver. His beautiful wife and two amazing children mean everything to him. He puts the priority on being involved in his children’s sports and activities. His commitment to his community is also strong. He raises money and awareness for charitable organizations through “Flash Day” fundraisers with the help of his clients and fans.
Michael Lauen is a sponsored artist for Skin Masters Tattoo After Care and El Diablo Tattoo Needles and Supplies